Broadway is the mainstay of theatre in the United States and is well known for its performances and the wages of its cast and crew. The wages paid to the cast and crew vary greatly depending on the production, experience of the performers, and budget of the production. This article will explore the minimum wage paid to the performers and crew in Broadway productions.
According to Equity, the union for actors and stage managers, the minimum wage for Broadway productions varies depending on the size of the cast and the budget of the production. For a production with a large cast (30 or more performers), the minimum wage is $2,034 per week with a minimum of eight performances for each actor. For a production with a smaller cast (29 performers or fewer), the minimum wage is $1,754 per week with a minimum of eight performances per week.
In addition to the weekly minimum wage, Broadway performers and crew also receive additional benefits such as health insurance, pension contributions, and travel expenses. Equity also negotiates additional payments for performers depending on their experience, such as a “stunt” differential for those performing complicated stunts or an additional “sing-dance” differential for performers with a combination of singing and dancing skills.
Some Broadway productions are part of ongoing agreements between Equity and producers. These shows have an additional minimum wage agreement, which is currently set at $1,945 per week, with a minimum of eight performances for each actor. These agreements provide additional benefits for the performers, including health insurance and pension contributions.
Broadway performers and crew also receive additional compensation, depending on the production. This can include royalties, performance bonuses, and other incentive payments. These additional payments are determined by the producer and can vary greatly depending on the success of the production.
Broadway is a thriving industry with many talented performers and crew. The minimum wage paid to these professionals is crucial in ensuring that they are compensated fairly for their work and expertise. As the popularity of Broadway continues to rise, the minimum wage for the performers and crew is likely to increase.
Understanding New York City’s Minimum Wage Law for Broadway
Broadway is a vibrant cultural and entertainment hub in New York City, with a range of commercial and artistic activities. As a result, there are many employment opportunities available to New Yorkers and visitors alike. To ensure that those employed in the Broadway industry are paid a fair wage, the City of New York has enacted a minimum wage law for Broadway performers and other related personnel. This article will explain the components of the minimum wage law and the current wage rate for those working on Broadway.
What is the New York City Minimum Wage Law for Broadway?
The New York City Minimum Wage Law for Broadway is a set of regulations that governs the wages of Broadway employees. This law was enacted to ensure that all Broadway workers are compensated fairly for their contributions to the industry. As of 2021, the minimum wage for Broadway workers is $15.00 per hour, with increases up to $15.50 per hour in the subsequent years. This is significantly higher than the state minimum wage for New York, which is $11.80 per hour.
In addition to the minimum wage, the law also sets out provisions for overtime pay, meal breaks, and recordkeeping. Overtime pay is one and one-half times the regular rate of pay for all hours worked over 40 in a workweek. Broadway workers are entitled to at least one 30-minute meal break for every 6 hours they work, and employers must keep accurate records of all hours worked, wages paid, and any deductions taken from wages.
Who Is Covered by the Minimum Wage Law?
The New York City Minimum Wage Law for Broadway applies to all businesses involved in the production of a Broadway show, as well as any personnel who are part of the cast or crew. This includes actors, directors, stage managers, lighting designers, set designers, costume designers, musicians, technicians, sound engineers, and more. The law also applies to those who work in the theatre’s box office, concession stands, and administrative offices. It is important to note that the law does not cover independent contractors, such as members of the orchestra or catering staff.
The Current Minimum Wage Rate on Broadway
As of 2021, the minimum wage for Broadway workers is $15.00 per hour. This is significantly higher than the state minimum wage for New York, which is $11.80 per hour. The wage rate is set to increase to $15.50 in 2022, and is tied to the Consumer Price Index. The table below shows the current and upcoming minimum wage rates for Broadway employees.
| Year | Minimum Wage ($/hr) |
|---|---|
| 2021 | $15.00 |
| 2022 | $15.50 |
Conclusion
New York City has enacted a minimum wage law to ensure that those employed on Broadway are paid a fair wage for their contributions. The current minimum wage is $15.00 per hour, with increases up to $15.50 in the subsequent years. The law also includes provisions for overtime pay, meal breaks, and recordkeeping. It is important to note that the law does not cover independent contractors.
Broadway’s Minimum Wage: What to Know
The minimum wage for Broadway performers is set by the Actors’ Equity Association (AEA). According to the most recent AEA minimum wage rate, the minimum wage for a Broadway actor is currently $2,034.00 per week. This rate is for a nine-week period.
In addition to the nine-week period, there are certain bonuses that must be paid to performers. These include a vacation bonus of two weeks at $1,326 per week, an additional seven-day rehearsal bonus, and a 10% health and pension contribution.
The AEA minimum wage applies to all performers, including actors, dancers, understudies, and chorus members. It applies regardless of whether the performer is a union member or not.
The AEA minimum wage does not apply to any show that is produced outside of Broadway. For shows produced off-Broadway and in regional theatres, the minimum wage is set by the specific production company. Generally, the minimum wage for these productions is much lower than the Broadway minimum wage.
The AEA also sets a minimum salary for stage managers and assistant stage managers. The current minimum wage for stage managers and assistant stage managers is $2,419.00 per week.
| Position | Minimum Wage |
|---|---|
| Actors | $2,034.00 per week |
| Stage Managers & Assistant Stage Managers | $2,419.00 per week |
The AEA minimum wage applies only to Broadway shows, and does not apply to any other theatre productions. It is important to note that the minimum wage on Broadway is much higher than the minimum wage in other parts of the country. For example, the minimum wage in New York City is currently $15.00 per hour.
When negotiating a contract with a production, it is important for performers to understand the minimum wage that applies to their performance. The AEA minimum wage is a good starting point, but it is important to remember that the wage can vary depending on the production, the production company, and the performer’s specific position. It is also important to remember that the AEA minimum wage does not apply to any show that is produced off-Broadway or in regional theatres.
The minimum wage on Broadway is $17.00 per hour.
The minimum wage for Broadway increased on January 1, 2020.
Yes, production and maintenance workers on Broadway are included in the minimum wage increase.
Yes, actors and other performers on Broadway receive the minimum wage.
Some Broadway workers may get paid more than the minimum wage, depending on the contract or agreements.
The minimum wage is raised on Broadway every two years.
The minimum wage on Broadway is set by the New York State Department of Labor.
The benefits of the minimum wage increase on Broadway include improved wages and working conditions for all employees.
The minimum wage on Broadway may differ from the minimum wage in other cities depending on the local and state laws.
Yes, all Broadway workers are required to receive the minimum wage.